Research on the negative effects of smoking continues to mount. Further research shows nicotine has detrimental effects on the intervertebral discs  the shock absorbing cartilage between the spinal vertebrae. The effects of nicotine on the cells of the intervertebral discs were studied. Researchers found nicotine significantly inhibited the cells ability to proliferate and synthesis. According to the researchers, nicotine in tobacco smoke may have a role in disc degeneration, a primary cause of back problems.